Adventure Activities Auckland

Written by: Katie Tobias

Auckland Harbour Bridge Bungy

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New Zealand is commonly referred to as the adventure capital of the world and Auckland is no exception. Jumping off New Zealand's tallest tower, hiking to the top of volcanoes, jumping off a bridge, climbing a bridge, islands, abseiling, kayaking - there are many adventure activities in Auckland for the outdoorsy traveller or adrenaline junkie. Here are 10 adventure activities in Auckland that are guaranteed to get your heart racing.

Auckland Activities

1. Canyoning in Piha

Canyoning is a sport which combines abseiling, cliff jumping, swimming, sliding and climbing through canyons, waterfalls and pools. Piha is located just over an hour from Auckland and nestled within the stunning Waitakere Ranges. Piha Canyon is the ultimate location for testing your bravery and on this tour, serves as an adventure playground for adults. There are half day and full day tours available that include transportation to and from Auckland's CBD. Not for the faint hearted! Find out more about Canyoning in Piha.

2. Auckland Harbour Bridge Bungy

Did you know that Auckland Harbour Bridge is actually made up of 3 bridges? The bridge was so popular when it first opened that two 'clip on' side lanes were connected to the main bridge. In true New Zealand fashion you can also bungy jump from the bridge. AJ Hackett New Zealand have multiple bungy zones in the country and the Harbour Bridge is the only location in New Zealand where you can also opt for an ocean dip. The walk along the Bridge to the bungy pod is exhilarating, offering amazing views of Auckland city and Waitemata Harbour. The jump is 40 meters high and it was here that the legend himself, AJ Hackett, was arrested in 1987 for jumping off the bridge when the sport was not technically legal. Interested? Find out more about Bungy Jumping in New Zealand.

Auckland Harbour Bridge Bungy

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3. Skydive over Auckland

Jump out of a perfectly good plane? Why not! If you consider yourself an adventure junkie, chances are you already have skydiving on your bucket list (or have ticked it off twice already). Skydive Auckland offer the highest skydive in New Zealand - a whopping 16,500ft! The dropzone offers amazing views of Auckland's west and east coast and of course, the city and surrounding islands. An absolute must!

4. Jetboat

This is a fast and fun way to explore Auckland's Waitemata Harbour. The Jet boating trip takes around 35 to 40 minutes as you zoom around at 100 km/hr! Auckland Jet Boat Tours operate daily - a must do!

5. Sky Tower, SkyJump & SkyWalk

New Zealand's tallest tower offers great photo opportunities of the city. Entry to Auckland's Sky Tower is cheap but if you are looking for views with a thrill - opt for the SkyWalk or SkyJump! The SkyWalk will have you walking around the Sky Tower on a platform with no rails (you are harnessed of course). The guides encourage you to lean over the edge and try various techniques that will have your heart pumping. A harness is attached to your back as you are walked to the very edge of the platform, overlooking the city streets below. The SkyJump is absolutely terrifying - a truly unique New Zealand must do!

Auckland Sky Tower SkyWalk

Auckland Sky Tower SkyWalk. Credit: Tourism New Zealand

6. Auckland Harbour Bridge Climb

The only Bridge Climb in all of New Zealand. The Auckland Bridge Climb lasts for around 1 and a half hours and will have you making your way up, up and up to the very top of this iconic landmark. The guided tour includes an overview of Auckland's unique history with amazing views and of course, a thrill as you ascend along the railings above the speeding traffic below. As you reach the summit you will be rewarded with 360 degree views of Auckland and surrounds - definitely worthy of a top bucket list spot!

7. Swim with Sharks at Auckland SEALIFE Aquarium

Kelly Tarlton's SEALIFE Aquarium in Auckland is home to Great White Sharks! There are two shark experiences to choose from: snorkel in a cage or scuba dive cageless alongside these majestic creatures. If you would rather view the sharks from afar - there are 30 live animal exhibits to visit, including Seahorse Kingdom, gigantic Stingrays & Penguin Discovery. Tip: Hire a bike with Adventure Capital and ride your way along the coastline to the Aquarium.

8. Auckland Sea Kayak Adventure to Rangitoto Island

If you consider yourself adventurous, then this tour is a must! Rangitoto Island is Auckland's largest and most recent volcano. The island is uninhabited by humans and the summit offers 360 degree views of Auckland city and surrounding islands and beaches.

Auckland Sea Kayak Tours departs mid afternoon and has you kayaking 5km from the mainland to Rangitoto. A gourmet BBQ dinner is served on the island before embarking on a one hour hike to the viewing platform at the summit. We watched the sunset over the city skyline before kayaking back to the mainland at night - this is an amazing experience - the ocean is quiet, the stars are vivid and the city lights are stunning!

Sea Kayak to Rangitoto Island

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9. Cycle the city

Adventure Capital in Auckland offer Guided or Self Guided bike tours of Auckland. This is a great and cheap way to explore the city. There are loads of different bike routes and areas of Auckland that you can discover by bike. Ponsonby is a favoured city suburb amongst tourists and locals with an alternative feel and loads of bars, restaurants and shops. A bike ride along the harbour towards the bridge is scenic and if you're up for a long but rewarding bike ride - Mission Bay is a buzzing little beach side suburb 8km from the city.

10. Mt Eden

Or in Maori - Maungawhau - means 'mountain of the Whau tree.' Mt Eden is a volcano and its summit it 196km above sea level, which means - great views of the city. It is the highest natural vantage point in Auckland and its main, yet strange feature - is the crater dome at the very top. For the outdoor lovers, the walking trail to the top of Mt Eden is incredibly scenic and the views are well worth the venture.